5 Reasons to Move from the City to the Western Suburbs

Chicago is a state-of-the-art city that offers a rich culture, amenities, and a recreation. But the time may come when you consider a move out of the city to the surrounding suburbs. The Western Chicago suburbs provide an attractive alternative with numerous advantages. Here are the top five reasons why moving to the Western suburbs might be the best choice for you...

1. Affordable Housing and Lower Cost of Living

Living in the heart of Chicago can be expensive, with high rents and property taxes. The Western suburbs, including Naperville, Downers Grove, and Oak Brook, offer more affordable housing options without sacrificing quality of life. You’ll find spacious single-family homes, modern apartments, and condos at a fraction of Chicago’s prices. Additionally, property taxes are often lower in many suburban areas, making homeownership more feasible.

2. Excellent Schools and Family-Friendly Environment

If you’re moving with a family, education is likely a top priority. The Western suburbs are home to some of the best school districts in Illinois, including Naperville District 203, Wheaton-Warrenville District 200, Hinsdale District 86. These schools consistently rank among the best for academic performance, extracurricular opportunities, and college preparedness. In addition to top-notch schools, the suburbs offer safe neighborhoods, parks, and plenty of family-friendly activities.

3. Less Congestion and More Green Space

One of the major drawbacks of city life is traffic congestion and limited outdoor space. In contrast, the Western suburbs provide a more relaxed lifestyle with tree-lined streets, parks, and nature trails. Places like the Morton Arboretum in Lisle and Cantigny Park in Wheaton offer outdoor recreation opportunities that city dwellers often lack. You’ll also enjoy easier parking and less crowded streets, making everyday life more convenient. Plus, practically every suburb provides easy access to county forest preserves and trails for walking or biking.

4. Better Commute Options with Access to the City

Many Western Chicago suburbs are strategically located near major highways and public transit options, making it easy to commute to the city for work or entertainment. Metra rail lines run through towns like Naperville, Wheaton, Elmhurst, Lombard, and more offering a stress-free alternative to driving. If you work remotely, the suburbs provide a quieter, more spacious environment to set up a home office while still having the option to access Chicago when needed.

5. Thriving Job Market and Business Opportunities

The Western suburbs are not just great places to live but also excellent for career growth. Many major companies have established headquarters in the area, including Nicor Gas in Naperville and Ace Hardware in Oak Brook. The suburban business districts offer strong employment opportunities in various industries, from healthcare to finance. For entrepreneurs, the lower cost of operating a business compared to the city makes the Western suburbs an attractive option.